Devon Libraries users to benefit from new library system

Library users across Devon can look forward to a more modern, user-friendly and improved library service thanks to a new library system and website.

Libraries Unlimited, the charity responsible for running Devon’s libraries, and Devon County Council, have been working on the major improvement programme over the past few years, and the system is now ready to go live.

The library management system, provided by industry specialists Axiell UK, will provide better ‘search’ and ‘catalogue’ facilities and is a lot easier to use than the existing system, meaning users will experience a much more efficient library service, both online and within library branches.

Libraries across Devon will be switching over to the new system from 29th November and it is hoped that all libraries will be online with the new system by mid-December. The new website will be available at devonlibraries.org.uk and, once live, users will be able to use their existing borrower number and PIN to access all library services, including the catalogue, reservations and renewals, as well as account information, eBooks, digital magazines and more.

Ciara Eastell, Chief Executive of Libraries Unlimited said: “We are very excited that we’re now ready to go live with our new library system and Devon Libraries website. We have been working hard to ensure the system is fit for purpose, and to ensure that it will meet the needs of our users and offer the best possible service. From 29th November, our libraries across Devon will be operating a limited service whilst we are in transition. Library users will still be able to borrow books, eBooks and audiobooks and access our resources and information, but everyone will need to have their library cards with them. There won’t be any online catalogue or reservation facilities during this time, but access to our eBooks and digital magazines will be unaffected and staff will be available in libraries to help and support our users in any way they can.

She continued: “Our new system will be live and all libraries functioning normally again by mid-December. We are looking forward to being able to offer a much more efficient and reliable library service to the people of Devon and look forward to hearing feedback on the new system. All of our staff have been trained in using the new system, but library users might need to bear with us as staff adjust to the new system. This switch-over is part of our overall aim to significantly improve customer experience by offering more modern and dynamic services, whilst improving the efficiency of our organisation as a whole.”

For more information about the services available during transition, please ask in your local library or email.

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